10/15/2026
Down payment assistance can help cover the upfront cash to buy a home, but it isn't always free money, so know how it's repaid first.
QUICK ANSWER
Down payment assistance helps buyers who can handle a monthly mortgage but don't have enough saved for the upfront cash. Whether it fits depends on eligibility, how the assistance is repaid, and whether the program still has funding.
WHAT IS DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE?
Down payment assistance (also called DPA or homebuyer assistance) is money from a state housing agency, a city or county, a nonprofit or an employer that helps cover a buyer's down payment and sometimes closing costs.
THERE'S ANOTHER WAY
The belief: you can't buy until you've saved the whole down payment yourself.
The alternative: down payment assistance can close part of that gap. It usually comes in one of four forms:
1. A grant you don't repay.
2. A forgivable loan that is forgiven if you stay in the home for the required time.
3. A deferred loan with no monthly payment that you repay when you sell, refinance or pay off the mortgage.
4. A repayable loan with its own monthly cost alongside your mortgage.
It tends to fit buyers with steady income and good payment history who are short on savings and plan to stay in the home.
QUESTIONS PEOPLE ASK
Is down payment assistance free money?
Not always. Some programs are grants, but many are loans that must be repaid or are only forgiven if you meet the conditions.
Who qualifies for down payment assistance?
It depends on the program. Most look at income limits, purchase price limits, credit, owner occupancy, and completion of a homebuyer education course.
What happens if I sell or refinance?
With a deferred or unforgiven loan, the balance is usually due when you sell, refinance or pay off the mortgage, so plan for that before you commit.
Can down payment assistance funds run out?
Yes. Many programs have limited funding, so availability can change during the year.
Does down payment assistance cost more?
Some programs come with a higher rate than a standard mortgage or added fees, which is why comparing the full picture matters.
KEY TAKEAWAY
Not always free money. Know how it's repaid.
I'm Kevin Martini, a Certified Mortgage Advisor with Martini Mortgage Group, powered by Rate, in Raleigh, North Carolina. I help homebuyers and homeowners choose a mortgage that fits their life, not just their approval amount. Call my office at (919) 238-4934.
Learn more about Kevin Martini: https://vist.ly/5nkm8
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Meet Certified Mortgage Advisor & Raleigh Mortgage Broker
Kevin Martini is a Certified Mortgage Advisor and the founder of the Martini Mortgage Group. With a proven track record of helping families across North Carolina and beyond, Kevin has dedicated his career to simplifying the mortgage process and empowering his clients to make informed financial decisions. Whether it's purchasing a first home, refinancing, or creating generational wealth through real estate, Kevin's personalized approach ensures every client feels confident and prepared.
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Kevin Martini | NMLS 143962 | Certified Mortgage Advisor | Martini Mortgage Group powered by Guaranteed Rate, Inc. D/B/A Rate | NMLS #2611 | 507 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27604 | (919) 238-4934 | [email protected] | Equal Housing Lender